In response to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement, industry leaders and experts are weighing in on the implications for the future of work and worker wellbeing in the UK. The statement, which focused on rewarding work, making work pay, and welfare reform, is poised to reshape the landscape of workplace support and business growth.
Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for GRiD (Group Risk Development), expressed optimism about the government’s positive steps towards supporting individuals returning to work from long-term unemployment due to sickness or disability. Moxham emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of economic inactivity and urged the government to encourage employers to provide better long-term sick pay and support during absence.
Moxham stated:
Employers will find help within their benefits package for supporting those whose health presents a barrier to work. Group income protection insurance, for instance, not only covers long-term sick pay but also includes access to vocational rehabilitation experts, advice, and support for both short- and long-term health conditions. This proactive approach can mitigate the number of economically inactive individuals and save the state considerable effort and cost.
Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for GRiD
In response to the government’s commitment to extending occupational health (OH) services, Moxham expressed support for better workplace support for disabled individuals and those with health conditions. She highlighted the effectiveness of Group Income Protection Insurance (GIP) as a comprehensive solution, incorporating vocational rehabilitation and wider work and health support.
Moxham commented:
We look forward to engaging with the government to explore the potential linkage with associated products that support employee health. This includes not only traditional OH but also broader initiatives such as vocational rehabilitation, health insurance, and wellness programs, all of which contribute to improved retention, productivity, and overall societal benefits.
The Autumn Statement also included a permanent tax break for businesses and an additional £500 million in funding for UK Artificial Intelligence (AI). Claire Trachet, CEO/Founder of business advisory firm Trachet, applauded the government’s commitment to business growth and foreign investment, citing the extension of the tax break as a crucial move to support companies facing economic challenges.
Trachet stated:
The government’s continued commitment to strengthening the country’s position in artificial intelligence through an additional £500 million in funding for UK AI is a positive step. This funding will empower tech firms to bring cutting-edge products to market faster, ensuring that Britain maintains its leadership position in the European AI sector.
Claire Trachet, CEO/Founder Trachet
As the UK charts a course towards a progressive future of work, the combined efforts of government initiatives and private sector collaboration are expected to enhance worker wellbeing, drive economic growth, and solidify the nation’s standing in emerging technologies.
Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.